Nestled just northwest of the nation’s capital and buffered by the bustle of Bethesda, the Town of Somerset is a true hidden gem in Montgomery County. With its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and tight-knit feel, Somerset boasts a heritage that’s as rich as its scenery is tranquil. For more than a century, this small yet vibrant neighborhood has woven together the threads of history, community, and progress, creating a tapestry that continues to enchant residents and visitors alike.
Origins on the Edge of the Capital
The story of Somerset dates back to the closing years of the 19th century. In 1890, five Washington, D.C., professionals—among them lawyers and journalists—sought respite from the city’s growing congestion. United by a vision, they purchased 50 acres of farmland on the Maryland countryside, just beyond the city limits. Their goal: to create a pastoral enclave where families could enjoy the quietude of rural life yet remain a convenient trolley ride from downtown D.C.
This land, part of the historic Chelsea Estate, became the canvas for their dreams. They named the new subdivision “Somerset”—inspired by Somerset, England, the ancestral home of one of the founders, and perhaps by the poetic charm associated with the British countryside.
The Birth of a Town
Plotting out Somerset’s future, the founders carefully divided the tract into spacious lots, laying out a network of what are today the neighborhood’s enduring thoroughfares: Dorset Avenue, Cumberland Avenue, and Essex Avenue. Early deed restrictions ensured the character of the neighborhood, requiring that every home be set back from the street and surrounded by open space.
By 1906, Somerset’s population had grown, and the community decided to incorporate as its own town—a strategic move to maintain local control over roads, schools, and development. Thus, Somerset became one of the first incorporated towns in Montgomery County, setting a precedent for “home rule” in the region.
Key Milestones and Growth
From its early days, Somerset’s growth was modest but thoughtful. The first wave of homes—large, wood-frame Victorians—still stand proudly along Dorset and Warwick, their gables and wraparound porches conjuring images of a slower, more gracious era.
- In 1916, the community celebrated the completion of its own water system, piped fresh from Bethesda's burgeoning infrastructure. Electric lights soon followed, and by the 1920s, Somerset was fully electrified.
- The neighborhood weathered the Depression and World Wars with unity and resilience. During World War II, many Somerset residents took the trolley into the city to support the war effort in government offices and agencies.
Through the postwar years, Somerset’s character evolved. The 1950s and 60s brought more families seeking a peaceful alternative to city living, and many new houses—Cape Cods and brick Colonials—appeared alongside older, sprawling Victorians.
Landmarks and Institutions
Several sites in Somerset stand as testaments to its heritage and ongoing commitment to community life:
- The Somerset Town Hall (4510 Cumberland Avenue): Once a modest cottage, this building now serves as the hub of civic life—a gathering spot for town meetings, special events, and celebrations.
- Vinton Park: Located at Essex Avenue and Warwick Place, this charming green space and playground offers a tranquil spot where generations of children have played under the canopy of mature oaks and maples.
- Historic Homes: Walking Somerset’s avenues is a voyage through architectural history, from the original “founders’ houses” to later-era Colonials and thoughtfully restored Craftsman bungalows.
The neighborhood’s close-knit sensibility is also apparent in its annual traditions. Every spring, residents gather for Somerset Day—a town-wide picnic on the green, complete with games, music, and home-baked treats.
Changing with the Times
While Somerset remains anchored in tradition, it’s also a place of thoughtful evolution. Over the decades, the town has balanced its historic roots with new amenities and inclusivity.
- The early 2000s saw efforts to improve sustainability—native plantings in public spaces, stormwater management upgrades, and a focus on walkability.
- Today, Somerset School Playground and the historic Somerset Elementary (located just outside the town boundary, but central to its identity) speak to the neighborhood’s enduring focus on family and education.
Over time, Somerset has embraced a more diverse population. What was once a sleepy enclave is now known for its welcoming spirit, progressive civic dialogue, and strong ties to the wider Bethesda–Chevy Chase corridor.
The Spirit of Somerset
Ask a longtime resident what makes Somerset special, and you’ll hear about more than pretty houses or proximity to downtown. It’s the sense of belonging. The wave between neighbors on Warwick Place. The sight of kids learning to ride bikes down Dorset Avenue. The echo of laughter at the Fourth of July parade. It’s a place where the past is honored, the present is celebrated, and the future feels bright.
Somerset’s past—rooted in visionary origins and enriched by generations of stewards—continues to shape the town’s character. Whether you’re admiring the enduring architecture, relaxing in Vinton Park, or tracing the trolley route that once linked Somerset to the capital, you’re walking the same paths as those who built this community with care and pride.
As the world outside grows ever busier, Somerset retains its old-world grace while continuing to welcome new faces and ideas. It’s not just a neighborhood; it’s a way of life, preserved in the gentle shade of its maples and the warm glow of its history.